In the evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, speculations about possible contenders for the 2027 presidential election have started to pick up pace, with attention turning to familiar faces and former leaders. Recently, Professor Jerry Gana—a respected academic and former Minister of Information and Orientation—publicly voiced his strong belief that former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan may once again vie for the country’s top office under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) banner.
Gana’s confidence reflects growing chatter within political circles and among everyday Nigerians who observe the shifting dynamics of power. He claims that Jonathan, if he chooses to run, could unseat incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and make a dramatic return to Aso Rock, almost a decade after his initial departure.
For many, Jonathan’s loss in the 2015 presidential election—when he was defeated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, retired General Muhammadu Buhari—marked a major turning point in Nigeria’s democratic history. That electoral defeat ended the PDP’s 16-year reign and ushered in a new era under the APC. Since then, the PDP has faced challenges in rebuilding unity within its ranks and formulating a clear path back to national prominence, something the party has reportedly been working tirelessly to address ahead of the next election cycle.
Key Remarks from Professor Jerry Gana
Addressing the press following the recent PDP Congress in Minna, Niger State, Professor Gana expressed optimism about Jonathan’s potential candidacy. He observed that Nigerians have seen the leadership of two presidents since Jonathan’s tenure and that there is “a growing nostalgia for his style of governance.”
The sentiments expressed by Gana are echoed in certain quarters, especially among party stalwarts who believe that a Jonathan candidacy could rally both old allies and new supporters to the PDP’s cause. This enthusiasm is not without context, as some Nigerians recall Jonathan’s time in office as a period of relative economic stability and peaceful transition of power.
“In 2015, former President Goodluck Jonathan said his ambition was not worth the blood of Nigerians. After him, another president ruled for eight years, and now another has ruled for two years. Nigerians have seen the difference, and the difference is very clear. Nigerians are now asking us to bring back our friend, former President Goodluck Jonathan,” Gana remarked, urging PDP supporters to “prepare to support him in the 2027 presidential race.”
Uncertainty Over Jonathan’s Actual Intentions
Despite the confidence shown by Professor Gana and other party leaders, Goodluck Jonathan himself has not made any definitive public announcement about his intentions for the 2027 elections. In numerous interviews and public forums, Jonathan has repeatedly highlighted his ongoing commitment to advancing peace, democracy, and mediation efforts across Africa, steering clear of divisive or speculative politics at home.
A notable quote from a 2023 panel discussion on African leadership captures his stance: “Political office is not a do-or-die affair. Our focus must always be on building peace, not on personal ambition.” Jonathan’s involvement with international organisations and ongoing diplomatic mediation—such as his role in resolving crises in Mali, The Gambia, and South Sudan—remains at the core of his current public image.
Political analysts, like Lagos-based policy expert Tolu Ogunlesi, note that “While there’s undeniable nostalgia and a groundswell of support, whether Jonathan will contest ultimately depends on both party strategy and his personal convictions.” Such uncertainty has not dampened speculation, however, as the PDP continues to search for a candidate with widespread appeal and proven leadership experience.
The PDP’s Search for Revival
Since its ouster in 2015, the PDP has faced significant internal challenges, including power tussles among factions and a struggle to present a united front. Yet, some party loyalists see a Jonathan candidacy as a unifying force—someone who can bridge gaps between the party’s ‘old guard’ and the younger generation of voters demanding reforms and transparency.
At the same time, there is skepticism, particularly among youth activists wary of recycled politicians. “We want fresh faces with innovative ideas, not a throwback to the past,” says Chika Anozie, an Abuja-based youth mobiliser. Others point out that Jonathan’s legacy, while notable for peaceful transitions, also includes unresolved issues like mounting insecurity and persistent economic challenges during his administration.
According to a 2022 Afrobarometer survey, public trust in major political parties, including the PDP, remains low, especially among young and first-time voters. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the party as it weighs potential flag bearers who can resonate across generational divides and mobilise a diverse electorate.
Regional and Global Implications of a Potential Jonathan Comeback
Should Jonathan decide to contest, the decision will likely reverberate beyond Nigeria’s borders. His reputation as a statesman and mediator has elevated his profile across West Africa. Ghanaian and Senegalese observers have commented on the stability he brought to his exit in 2015—a contrast to contested elections elsewhere in the region.
According to ECOWAS officials, Jonathan’s leadership on the continent has contributed to promoting credible elections and peaceful handovers, both critical to regional security and economic growth. His candidacy, if realised, could signal to West African democracies the importance of continuity balanced with reform.
What Would a Jonathan 2027 Run Mean for Nigeria?
The prospect of Jonathan returning to Nigeria’s highest office sparks a lively debate. Supporters believe he is uniquely positioned to heal divisions, having been widely praised for conceding defeat in 2015 and prioritising national peace. Critics, however, caution that a mere return to the past may not address structural challenges facing the country—from persistent youth unemployment and inflation to insecurity in several regions.
Economists highlight the need for any future president to focus on job creation, diversification of the economy, and robust anti-corruption measures. Legal experts note that the 2022 constitutional amendment, which put new limits on presidential terms, would allow Jonathan to contest one more time, if he chooses to run and if nominated by the PDP.
This debate is likely to intensify as Nigeria and its West African neighbours prepare for a decisive electoral year. As Nigeriens, Ghanaians, and others in the region watch closely, the question remains: will Jonathan heed the calls for a comeback or maintain his focus on international diplomacy?
Your thoughts matter. Should Nigeria bring back former President Jonathan for 2027, or is it time for a new face to lead the country forward? Drop your views in the comment section below—and don’t forget to follow us for the latest updates on Nigeria’s political scene.
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